The Department of Agriculture (DA) XI has extended PHP 16 million worth of livestock and poultry assistance to hundreds of farmers in Davao del Norte who were severely affected by the shearline and trough of a low-pressure area (LPA). The aid aims to help communities recover from the devastating calamities that left many farmers struggling with weakened livestock and damaged livelihoods.
Turnover of Assistance
The assistance was officially turned over on May 5, 2026, through the agency’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) unit under the Quick Response Fund (QRF). This program is designed to support immediate rehabilitation and recovery efforts in calamity-stricken areas. The intervention specifically aims to restore and strengthen livestock production in Davao del Norte following the severe flooding and agricultural losses caused by recent weather disturbances.
Distribution in Tagum City
During the distribution activity in Tagum City, hundreds of farmers received various forms of support under the rehabilitation and recovery program. Beneficiaries included 79 sheep raisers, 77 goat raisers, 295 chicken raisers, six turkey raisers, 26 cattle raisers, and 36 carabao raisers. The support package covered livestock and poultry restocking, as well as feeds, supplements, drugs, and biologics to help ensure the health and productivity of the animals.
Commitment to Farmers
In his message, DA XI Regional Executive Director Macario D. Gonzaga underscored the agency’s commitment to helping farmers recover and sustain food production amid challenges. “This is a testament of our continued commitment to always support our farmers, who are our partners in ensuring food availability, accessibility, and affordability, especially in times of calamity,” Gonzaga said.
He encouraged beneficiaries to properly care for the livestock provided and maximize the opportunity to rebuild and expand their livelihoods. Gonzaga further urged farmers to avail themselves of government agricultural insurance programs to protect their investments from future calamities.
Quick Response Fund
The DA’s Quick Response Fund serves as a standby funding mechanism for emergency rehabilitation and recovery initiatives, including agricultural assistance, relief operations, and reconstruction efforts in disaster-affected areas. The turnover activity was also attended by DRRM Alternate Focal Joedel Leliza, Livestock Program Regional Coordinator Dr. Karl Laurence Pineda, and farmer-beneficiaries from various municipalities in Davao del Norte.
Path to Recovery
With continued support from both national and local governments, affected farmers in the province are now taking the first steps toward rebuilding their livelihoods with renewed resilience and hope for a more productive future. The assistance is expected to significantly boost the local agricultural sector and help ensure food security in the region.
